Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for replacing a peer node on an Ethernet network, the method comprising: providing a plurality of nodes configured to communicate with each other as peers on the Ethernet network over a peer-to-peer networking communication protocol; storing a network address and a node name associated with each node in a configuration table by each node of the Ethernet network; communicating, by a new node added to the network as a peer with the plurality of nodes, a notification message onto the network to enable each of the nodes on the network to receive the notification message; receiving, by the new node from each of the other nodes on the network that received the notification message, a response message to the notification message, the response messages including respective configuration tables; determining, by the new node, which node the new node has replaced by identifying an identifier associated with the replaced node that is missing from a set of node identifiers listed in at least one configuration table received in the response messages; populating a configuration table by the new node, the configuration table including (i) each of the network addresses and node names of the nodes that responded to the notification message, and (ii) a network address and a node name of the new node, wherein the node name of the new node is the same as the node name of the replaced node as determined from the configuration tables received from its peer nodes on the Ethernet network; and communicating, by the new node, an update message to each of the network nodes that sent a response message to enable each of the network nodes to update respective configuration tables being stored thereat to replace at least the network address of the replaced node with the network address of the new node.
2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein communicating a notification message includes communicating a multicast message.
A system and method for efficient notification delivery in a network environment addresses the problem of resource-intensive and unreliable notification dissemination in distributed systems. The invention improves upon prior art by using multicast communication to reduce bandwidth usage and ensure timely delivery of notifications to multiple recipients simultaneously. The method involves generating a notification message in response to a detected event or condition within the network, such as a system alert or user-triggered action. The notification message is then transmitted as a multicast message to a predefined group of recipients, eliminating the need for individual unicast transmissions. This approach minimizes network overhead and latency while ensuring that all intended recipients receive the notification concurrently. The system may include a notification server or distributed nodes that coordinate the multicast transmission, with optional acknowledgment mechanisms to confirm receipt. The invention is particularly useful in large-scale networks, such as cloud computing environments or IoT systems, where efficient and scalable notification delivery is critical. By leveraging multicast communication, the method enhances reliability and reduces the computational and network resource demands associated with traditional notification methods.
3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein receiving a response message includes receiving a unicast message.
A system and method for secure communication in a network environment addresses the challenge of ensuring reliable and authenticated message exchange between devices. The method involves transmitting a request message from a first device to a second device, where the request message includes a cryptographic challenge. The second device processes the request, generates a response message containing a cryptographic proof derived from the challenge, and transmits the response back to the first device. The first device verifies the cryptographic proof to authenticate the second device. The response message is received as a unicast transmission, ensuring that the communication is directed specifically to the first device, enhancing security and reducing the risk of interception or spoofing. This method is particularly useful in environments where devices must establish trust before exchanging sensitive data, such as in IoT networks, industrial control systems, or secure payment transactions. The use of cryptographic challenges and proofs ensures that only authorized devices can participate in the communication, while the unicast transmission prevents unauthorized devices from eavesdropping or injecting false responses. The system may also include additional steps for error handling, such as retrying the request if no valid response is received within a specified timeframe.
4. The method according to claim 3 , wherein receiving the unicast message includes receiving an entire CONFIG_DELTA_ARRAY table.
A system and method for efficiently managing configuration data in a wireless communication network, particularly for devices operating in low-power or resource-constrained environments. The technology addresses the challenge of minimizing power consumption and bandwidth usage while ensuring devices receive only the necessary configuration updates. The method involves transmitting configuration data in a unicast message, where the message includes a complete CONFIG_DELTA_ARRAY table. This table contains differential configuration updates, allowing receiving devices to apply only the changes needed rather than processing an entire configuration file. The approach optimizes communication by reducing the amount of data transmitted and processed, which is critical for battery-powered devices or networks with limited bandwidth. The method ensures that devices receive the latest configuration updates without unnecessary overhead, improving efficiency and reliability in dynamic network environments. The solution is particularly useful in IoT (Internet of Things) applications, smart meters, and other low-power wireless systems where minimizing energy consumption and data transmission is essential.
5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein populating includes: determining which network address is missing; and replacing the missing network address with a network address in the configuration table in association with a node name associated with the missing network address to form an updated configuration table.
This invention relates to network configuration management, specifically addressing the problem of missing or incorrect network addresses in system configurations. The method involves detecting and correcting missing network addresses in a configuration table that maps node names to network addresses. When a missing network address is identified, the method replaces it with a valid network address from the configuration table, ensuring the node name remains associated with the correct address. This process updates the configuration table to maintain accurate network mappings, preventing connectivity issues or misrouting. The method is particularly useful in dynamic network environments where addresses may change or become unavailable, ensuring consistent and reliable network operations. By automating the detection and correction of missing addresses, the system reduces manual intervention and minimizes errors in network configurations. The approach leverages existing configuration data to resolve discrepancies, improving system robustness and efficiency.
6. The method according to claim 1 , wherein populating includes storing a configuration table received in a response message.
A system and method for managing configuration data in a networked environment involves dynamically updating configuration settings for devices or applications. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable distribution of configuration data to multiple endpoints, ensuring consistency and minimizing downtime during updates. The method includes receiving a configuration table from a central server or management system, where the table contains parameters, settings, or instructions for configuring one or more devices or applications. The configuration table is stored in a local database or memory, allowing the system to apply the settings automatically or upon request. This ensures that all connected devices or applications operate with the latest configuration, reducing errors and improving system performance. The method may also include validating the received configuration table before storage to ensure data integrity and compatibility with the target devices. The system can be used in various applications, such as cloud computing, IoT device management, or enterprise software deployment, where centralized control and automated updates are critical.
7. The method according to claim 1 , wherein communicating the notification message causes the configuration table stored by each node on the network to be automatically communicated by each node that receives the notification message.
This invention relates to network configuration management, specifically a method for propagating configuration updates across a distributed network. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable synchronization of configuration data among multiple nodes in a network, ensuring all nodes maintain consistent and up-to-date settings without manual intervention. The method involves a notification mechanism that triggers automatic communication of configuration tables between nodes. When a configuration change occurs, a notification message is sent to relevant nodes. Upon receiving this message, each node automatically transmits its stored configuration table to other nodes, ensuring rapid and synchronized updates across the network. This eliminates the need for centralized management or manual updates, reducing errors and downtime. The method is particularly useful in large-scale or dynamic networks where manual configuration updates are impractical. By leveraging automatic propagation, the system ensures all nodes operate with the same configuration, improving network reliability and performance. The approach is scalable and adaptable to various network architectures, including peer-to-peer and hierarchical systems. The invention enhances operational efficiency by minimizing administrative overhead and ensuring real-time consistency across the network.
8. The method according to claim 1 , wherein communicating the updated message includes automatically communicating the update message by the new node.
A system and method for message communication in a distributed network involves updating and propagating messages between nodes. The method includes detecting a change in network topology, such as the addition of a new node, and updating a message stored in the network to reflect the new topology. The updated message is then communicated to other nodes in the network. Specifically, the new node automatically transmits the updated message to ensure all nodes receive the latest network configuration. This process ensures synchronization and consistency across the distributed network, allowing nodes to maintain accurate information about the network structure. The method may involve generating a new message or modifying an existing one to include the updated topology information. The automatic communication by the new node ensures efficient propagation without requiring manual intervention or additional coordination steps. This approach is particularly useful in dynamic networks where topology changes frequently, such as in peer-to-peer or decentralized systems. The method helps prevent inconsistencies and ensures reliable communication between nodes.
9. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising naming the new node with a temporary name prior to being renamed with the same node name of the replaced node as determined from the configuration tables received from its peer nodes on the Ethernet network.
This invention relates to network management in Ethernet networks, specifically addressing the challenge of maintaining consistent node naming during node replacement or updates. In Ethernet networks, nodes (such as switches or routers) must be uniquely identified, and any changes to node names can disrupt network operations. The invention provides a method to ensure seamless node naming during replacement by temporarily assigning a placeholder name to a new node before renaming it to match the name of the replaced node. The new node retrieves configuration data, including the original node name, from peer nodes in the network. This ensures that the network continues to recognize the new node as the same entity, preventing disruptions in communication or management systems that rely on node names. The method involves dynamically updating the node name based on peer-provided configuration tables, allowing for smooth transitions without manual intervention. This approach is particularly useful in large-scale networks where manual renaming would be impractical or error-prone. The invention improves network reliability and reduces administrative overhead by automating the naming process during node replacements.
10. An Ethernet-enabled node, comprising: a memory unit; an input/output (I/O) unit configured to communicate over an Ethernet network; and a processing unit in communication with the memory unit and the I/O unit, and configured to: store a network address and a node name of the network-enabled node; communicate, by a new node added to the network, a notification message onto the Ethernet network to enable each other peer node on the network to receive the notification message, the notification message including a network address of the Ethernet-enabled node; receive, from each of the other nodes on the network that received the notification message, a response message, the respective response messages including a configuration table and network address from each of the nodes on the network; determine which node the Ethernet-enabled node has replaced by identifying an identifier associated with a node missing from the response messages based on at least one configuration table received in the response messages; populate a configuration table including (i) each of the network addresses and node names of the nodes that responded to the response message, and (ii) a network address and a node name of the new node, wherein the node name of the new node is the same as the node name of the replaced node as determined from the at least one configuration table received from its peer nodes on the Ethernet network; and communicate an update message to each of the network nodes that sent a response message to enable each of the network nodes to update respective configuration tables being stored thereat to replace at least the network address of the replaced node with the network address of the new node.
This invention relates to Ethernet network management, specifically addressing the challenge of seamlessly integrating a new node into an existing Ethernet network while maintaining consistent node naming and configuration. The system involves an Ethernet-enabled node equipped with a memory unit, an I/O unit for network communication, and a processing unit. When a new node is added to the network, it broadcasts a notification message containing its network address. Existing nodes respond with their configuration tables and network addresses. The new node analyzes these responses to identify a missing node, determining which node it is replacing by comparing the received configuration tables. The new node then populates its own configuration table with the network addresses and node names of all responding nodes, adopting the node name of the replaced node. Finally, the new node sends an update message to all responding nodes, instructing them to update their configuration tables by replacing the network address of the replaced node with the new node's address. This ensures network continuity and proper node identification without manual intervention.
11. The Ethernet-enabled node according to claim 10 , wherein the notification message is a multicast message.
An Ethernet-enabled node is configured to operate within a network infrastructure, addressing the need for efficient and reliable communication between devices. The node includes a processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed, enable the node to generate and transmit a notification message to other nodes in the network. The notification message is a multicast message, allowing it to be sent to multiple recipients simultaneously, thereby improving communication efficiency and reducing network overhead. The node may also include a network interface for transmitting and receiving data packets, and a power management module to optimize energy consumption. The multicast notification message can be used to broadcast status updates, alerts, or configuration changes to multiple nodes without requiring individual transmissions, enhancing scalability and reducing latency in the network. This design is particularly useful in large-scale networks where real-time coordination between devices is critical.
12. The Ethernet-enabled node according to claim 10 , wherein the response message is a unicast message.
An Ethernet-enabled node is configured to operate in a network environment where devices communicate using Ethernet protocols. The node includes a processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed, enable the node to receive a request message from another device in the network. The node processes the request and generates a response message, which is then transmitted back to the requesting device. The response message is formatted as a unicast message, meaning it is directed to a single specific recipient rather than being broadcast to multiple devices. This ensures that the response is delivered directly to the intended device, improving communication efficiency and reducing unnecessary network traffic. The node may also include additional features such as error handling, message validation, and support for various Ethernet protocols to ensure reliable and secure communication. The use of unicast messaging in this context enhances the precision and reliability of data exchange in Ethernet-based networks.
13. The Ethernet-enabled node according to claim 12 , wherein the unicast message includes an entire CONFIG_DELTA_ARRAY table.
An Ethernet-enabled node is configured to communicate with other nodes in a network, particularly in industrial or automation systems where devices must synchronize configurations efficiently. The problem addressed is the need for reliable and efficient transmission of configuration updates between nodes, ensuring minimal disruption and accurate synchronization. The node includes a processor and memory storing a configuration table, which is used to manage and update device settings. The node is capable of receiving and processing unicast messages that contain configuration data, allowing for targeted updates to specific devices rather than broadcasting changes to the entire network. In this configuration, the unicast message includes an entire CONFIG_DELTA_ARRAY table, which represents a complete set of configuration changes or deltas. This table is used to update the node's local configuration, ensuring that all relevant settings are modified in a single transmission. The node processes the received CONFIG_DELTA_ARRAY to apply the updates, maintaining consistency across the network. This approach reduces the need for multiple transmissions and minimizes the risk of partial or inconsistent updates, improving overall system reliability and performance. The node may also include additional features, such as error detection and correction mechanisms, to further enhance the integrity of the configuration updates.
14. The Ethernet-enabled node according to claim 10 , wherein the processing unit, in populating a configuration table, is further configured to: determine which network address is missing; and replace the missing network address with a network address in the configuration table in association with a node name associated with the missing node to form an updated configuration table.
This invention relates to Ethernet-enabled nodes in a network, specifically addressing the problem of maintaining accurate network configurations when nodes are added, removed, or fail. The system includes a processing unit that manages a configuration table storing network addresses and associated node names. When a node is missing, the processing unit identifies the missing network address and replaces it with an available network address from the configuration table, ensuring the table remains up-to-date. This process involves detecting missing nodes, determining their network addresses, and updating the configuration table to maintain proper network functionality. The system may also include a network interface for communication and a storage unit for retaining the configuration table. The invention ensures seamless network operation by dynamically adjusting configurations to reflect current node statuses, preventing disruptions caused by missing or failed nodes. The processing unit's ability to detect and replace missing addresses automates configuration management, reducing manual intervention and improving network reliability.
15. The Ethernet-enabled node according to claim 10 , wherein the processing unit, in populating the configuration table, is configured to store a configuration table received in a response message.
This invention relates to Ethernet-enabled nodes in a network, specifically addressing the need for efficient configuration management in network devices. The technology involves a processing unit within an Ethernet-enabled node that manages a configuration table, which stores settings and parameters necessary for the node's operation. The processing unit is configured to populate this table by storing a configuration table received in a response message from another network device or a central management system. This allows for dynamic and remote configuration updates, ensuring that the node operates with the latest settings without manual intervention. The processing unit may also validate the received configuration table before storing it, ensuring data integrity and preventing incorrect configurations. This approach improves network reliability and reduces administrative overhead by automating configuration updates across distributed network nodes. The invention is particularly useful in large-scale networks where manual configuration of individual nodes is impractical. By enabling remote and automated configuration management, the system enhances scalability and reduces the risk of configuration errors. The processing unit's ability to handle configuration tables received in response messages ensures seamless integration with existing network management protocols and systems.
16. The Ethernet-enabled node according to claim 10 , wherein the notification message causes the configuration table stored by each node on the network to be automatically communicated by each node that receives the notification message.
This invention relates to Ethernet-enabled nodes in a network, specifically addressing the need for efficient and automated configuration table updates across multiple nodes. The system includes a network with multiple Ethernet-enabled nodes, each storing a configuration table that defines operational parameters for the node. A notification message is generated and transmitted within the network to trigger an update process. When a node receives the notification message, it automatically communicates its stored configuration table to other nodes in the network. This ensures that all nodes maintain synchronized configuration data without manual intervention. The notification message may be broadcast or unicast, depending on network requirements. The system may also include mechanisms to verify the integrity and authenticity of the configuration tables before they are propagated. This invention improves network management by reducing the risk of configuration inconsistencies and minimizing administrative overhead. The automated propagation of configuration tables ensures that all nodes operate with the same parameters, enhancing network reliability and performance.
17. The Ethernet-enabled node according to claim 10 , wherein the processing unit, in communicating the update message, is further configured to automatically communicate the updated message.
This invention relates to Ethernet-enabled nodes in a network, specifically addressing the need for efficient and automated communication of update messages within the network. The Ethernet-enabled node includes a processing unit that manages communication functions, including the transmission of update messages. The update message may contain data such as configuration changes, status updates, or other relevant information that needs to be propagated across the network. The processing unit is configured to automatically communicate the update message without manual intervention, ensuring timely and reliable dissemination of information. This automation reduces the risk of human error and improves network efficiency by minimizing delays in message transmission. The node may also include additional components, such as a memory unit for storing data and a communication interface for transmitting and receiving messages over the Ethernet network. The automated communication feature enhances the node's ability to maintain synchronization and coordination with other nodes in the network, particularly in dynamic environments where frequent updates are necessary. This invention is particularly useful in industrial, enterprise, or IoT networks where real-time data exchange is critical for optimal performance.
18. The Ethernet-enabled node according to claim 10 , wherein the processing unit is further configured to name the new node with a temporary name prior to being renamed with the same node name of the replaced node as determined from the configuration tables received from its peer nodes on the Ethernet network.
This invention relates to Ethernet-enabled nodes in a network, specifically addressing the challenge of seamlessly replacing a node while maintaining network consistency. The system involves a processing unit within an Ethernet-enabled node that manages node identification and configuration. When a node is replaced, the processing unit assigns a temporary name to the new node before renaming it to match the name of the replaced node. This renaming process is based on configuration tables received from peer nodes on the Ethernet network, ensuring that the new node adopts the same identity as the replaced node. The configuration tables contain information about node names and other relevant data, allowing the network to recognize the new node as a direct replacement for the old one. This approach simplifies node replacement by automating the renaming process and reducing manual configuration, thereby improving network stability and reducing downtime. The system ensures that the network topology remains consistent even after node replacements, as the new node inherits the identity of the replaced node.
19. The Ethernet-enabled device according to claim 18 , wherein the temporary name is a known default name used for nodes when newly connected to the Ethernet network.
This invention relates to Ethernet-enabled devices and addresses the challenge of managing device identification in Ethernet networks, particularly when new devices are connected. The system includes an Ethernet-enabled device with a network interface configured to connect to an Ethernet network and a processor that assigns a temporary name to the device when it is newly connected to the network. The temporary name is a known default name, such as a predefined identifier, that allows the device to be recognized and managed during initial setup or troubleshooting. The device may also include a memory storing the temporary name and a configuration module that facilitates the assignment of a permanent name or other unique identifier after initial connection. The system ensures seamless integration of new devices into the network by providing a standardized temporary identifier, simplifying network management and reducing configuration errors. The invention is particularly useful in environments where multiple devices are frequently added or replaced, such as industrial automation, smart home systems, or enterprise networks. The use of a known default name streamlines the process of identifying and configuring new devices, improving efficiency and reducing downtime.
20. The Ethernet-enabled node according to claim 10 , further comprising a Conformance Class A (CCA) device that includes the memory unit, the I/O unit, and the processing unit.
This invention relates to Ethernet-enabled nodes designed for industrial automation systems, particularly addressing the need for reliable, deterministic communication in harsh environments. The node includes a memory unit for storing data, an I/O unit for interfacing with external devices, and a processing unit for executing control logic. The node is configured to operate in a networked industrial automation system, ensuring real-time data exchange and synchronization. The node further includes a Conformance Class A (CCA) device, which integrates the memory, I/O, and processing units into a single module. This integration simplifies deployment and reduces latency in industrial applications. The CCA device ensures compliance with industrial Ethernet standards, providing robust communication in environments with electromagnetic interference and high noise levels. The processing unit executes deterministic control algorithms, while the I/O unit supports fieldbus protocols for interfacing with sensors, actuators, and other automation devices. The memory unit stores configuration data, firmware, and real-time operational data, ensuring seamless operation in industrial settings. This design enhances reliability, reduces hardware complexity, and improves system performance in industrial automation networks.
21. The Ethernet-enabled node according to claim 20 , wherein the CCA device is a scanner.
An Ethernet-enabled node is configured to operate in a network environment where multiple devices share a communication medium. The node includes a Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) device that evaluates the availability of the communication channel before transmitting data. In this configuration, the CCA device is implemented as a scanner, which actively monitors the channel to detect signals from other devices. The scanner determines whether the channel is clear for transmission by analyzing signal characteristics such as power levels, frequency, or timing. This ensures efficient and collision-free communication in shared network environments. The node may also include additional components, such as a transceiver for sending and receiving data, and a controller for managing communication protocols. The scanner-based CCA device enhances reliability by dynamically assessing channel conditions, reducing the likelihood of transmission conflicts and improving overall network performance. This solution is particularly useful in dense or high-traffic networks where channel contention is a common issue.
22. The Ethernet-enabled node according to claim 10 , wherein the Ethernet network is an IEEE 802.3 communications network.
This invention relates to an Ethernet-enabled node designed for communication within an IEEE 802.3 Ethernet network. The node includes a network interface configured to transmit and receive data packets over the Ethernet network, ensuring compatibility with the IEEE 802.3 standard, which defines physical and data link layer specifications for wired Ethernet communications. The node also incorporates a processing unit that manages data packet handling, including encoding, decoding, and error checking, to maintain reliable communication. Additionally, the node may support features such as auto-negotiation for link speed and duplex mode, ensuring optimal performance in diverse network environments. The Ethernet-enabled node is designed to operate efficiently within a structured Ethernet network, providing seamless integration with other IEEE 802.3-compliant devices. This invention addresses the need for standardized, high-speed, and reliable wired network communication in modern computing and networking applications.
23. The Ethernet-enabled node according to claim 10 , wherein the memory unit includes an SD card.
An Ethernet-enabled node is designed to facilitate data communication and storage in networked environments. The node includes a memory unit that stores data received from or transmitted to other devices via an Ethernet connection. The memory unit is configured to include an SD card, providing a removable and expandable storage solution. This allows for easy data transfer, backup, or expansion of storage capacity without requiring internal hardware modifications. The SD card interface enables compatibility with standard storage devices, ensuring flexibility in data management. The node may also include additional components such as a processor, network interface, and power supply to support Ethernet communication and data processing. The inclusion of an SD card in the memory unit enhances portability and scalability, making the node suitable for applications requiring temporary or supplementary storage. This design addresses the need for flexible and accessible data storage in Ethernet-connected systems, particularly in environments where removable storage is advantageous.
24. The Ethernet-enabled node according to claim 10 , wherein the network addresses are media access control (MAC) addresses.
This invention relates to Ethernet-enabled nodes in a network, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently managing and utilizing network addresses within such systems. The Ethernet-enabled node is configured to communicate over an Ethernet network and includes a processor and a memory storing instructions executable by the processor. The node is capable of receiving a network address request from a client device and determining whether the requested network address is available. If the address is available, the node assigns it to the client device. The node also monitors the usage of assigned network addresses and reassigns them when they become available. The invention further includes a method for managing network addresses, where the node periodically checks the status of assigned addresses and updates its records accordingly. In this specific embodiment, the network addresses being managed are media access control (MAC) addresses, which are unique identifiers assigned to network interfaces for communication at the data link layer. The system ensures efficient address allocation and prevents conflicts by dynamically tracking and reassigning MAC addresses as needed. This approach improves network performance and resource utilization by minimizing address conflicts and ensuring optimal use of available addresses.
25. An industrial Ethernet communications system having a dynamic network reconfiguration procedure, the system comprising: an IO controller; a plurality of nodes operably coupled with each other and the IO controller over an industrial network, each node configured to communicate with each other utilizing a peer-to-peer networking communication protocol, and having a configuration table stored thereon including at least a network address and a node name for each network-enabled node connected to the industrial network; and a replacement node operably coupled with the network and configured to: send a notification message onto the industrial network including a network address of the replacement node informing the other peer nodes on the network of the presence of the replacement node; receive a response message from each of the other nodes on the industrial network that received the notification message, the respective response messages including the configuration table stored by the respective nodes; determine a replaced node based on which node did not respond to the notification message by identifying an identifier that is missing from a set of node identifiers listed in at least one configuration table received in the response messages; populate a configuration table stored within the replacement node including (i) each of the network addresses and node names of the nodes that responded to the notification message and (ii) a network address and a node of the replacement node, wherein the node name of the replacement node is set as the node name corresponding to the replaced node that did not respond to the notification message as determined from the at least one configuration tables received from its peer nodes on the industrial network; and send an update message to each of the remaining nodes connected to the industrial network to update respective configuration tables being stored thereat with the network address of the replacement node replacing the network address of the replaced node.
An industrial Ethernet communications system dynamically reconfigures a network when a node is replaced. The system includes an IO controller and multiple nodes connected via an industrial network, each using a peer-to-peer communication protocol. Each node stores a configuration table with network addresses and node names for all connected nodes. When a replacement node joins the network, it sends a notification message to inform other nodes of its presence. The replacement node then receives response messages from the other nodes, each containing their configuration tables. By comparing these tables, the replacement node identifies a missing node identifier, determining that this node is the one being replaced. The replacement node updates its own configuration table with the network addresses and node names of the responding nodes, adopting the node name of the replaced node. Finally, the replacement node sends an update message to all other nodes, instructing them to replace the replaced node’s network address with its own in their configuration tables. This ensures seamless integration of the replacement node into the network without manual intervention.
26. The communications system according to claim 25 , wherein the IO controller is a programmable logic controller (PLC) configured to maintain communications over a communication bus of the industrial network.
This invention relates to industrial communication systems, specifically addressing the need for reliable and programmable control in industrial networks. The system includes an input/output (IO) controller that is a programmable logic controller (PLC) designed to maintain continuous communication over a communication bus within an industrial network. The PLC is responsible for managing data exchange between industrial devices, ensuring seamless and uninterrupted operation. The system likely integrates with other components, such as sensors, actuators, or other controllers, to facilitate real-time monitoring and control of industrial processes. The PLC's programmability allows for customization of communication protocols and logic, adapting to various industrial automation requirements. This ensures robust and flexible communication, reducing downtime and improving efficiency in industrial environments. The invention focuses on enhancing communication reliability and control within industrial networks, particularly in settings where uninterrupted data flow is critical.
27. The communications system according to claim 25 , wherein the IO controller is configured to send configuration parameters to the replacement node based on the node name of the replacement node being the same as the replaced node.
A communications system is designed to facilitate seamless node replacement in a network infrastructure. The system addresses the challenge of maintaining network functionality during node failures or upgrades by automating the configuration of replacement nodes. When a node in the network fails or is replaced, the system identifies the replacement node by its node name, which must match the name of the replaced node. An input/output (IO) controller within the system then sends configuration parameters to the replacement node, ensuring it is properly set up to function as the replaced node. This automated process eliminates manual configuration, reducing downtime and human error. The system ensures continuity by dynamically applying the correct settings to the replacement node, allowing it to integrate into the network without disruption. The IO controller manages this process, verifying the node name match and transmitting the necessary configuration data. This approach is particularly useful in large-scale networks where rapid and accurate node replacement is critical for maintaining operational efficiency. The system enhances reliability and scalability by standardizing the replacement procedure, ensuring that replacement nodes are quickly and correctly configured to maintain network performance.
28. The communications system according to claim 25 , wherein the notification message is a multicast message, each response message is a unicast message, and the update message is a multicast message.
This invention relates to a communications system designed to efficiently manage and distribute updates in a network environment. The system addresses the challenge of minimizing bandwidth usage and processing overhead when disseminating updates to multiple devices while ensuring reliable and timely responses. The system includes a central controller that generates and transmits a multicast notification message to a group of devices, alerting them to an available update. Each device in the group responds individually with a unicast message, allowing the controller to track which devices have acknowledged the notification. After receiving the responses, the controller sends the actual update as a multicast message to all devices that have acknowledged the notification. This approach reduces redundant transmissions by leveraging multicast for the notification and update, while using unicast for individual acknowledgments. The system ensures that only devices that have confirmed readiness receive the update, optimizing network resources and improving efficiency. The invention is particularly useful in environments where multiple devices need to be updated simultaneously, such as in IoT networks, enterprise systems, or distributed computing environments.
29. The communications system according to claim 25 , wherein the configuration table stored by each of the plurality of nodes is a difference configuration table relative to a known default table.
A communications system includes multiple nodes that store and use configuration tables to manage network operations. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently distributing and updating configuration data across a network, particularly in large-scale or dynamic environments where centralized management is impractical. Each node in the system stores a configuration table that defines its operational parameters, such as routing rules, security settings, or service policies. To minimize storage and transmission overhead, the configuration table is a difference configuration table, which contains only the deviations from a known default table. This approach reduces redundancy by storing only the differences between the node's specific configuration and a predefined baseline, rather than the entire configuration. The default table serves as a reference, allowing nodes to reconstruct their full configuration by combining the default settings with the stored differences. This method improves scalability and efficiency in configuration management, as updates only require transmitting the modified differences rather than the entire configuration. The system ensures consistency and reduces the risk of errors during configuration updates, particularly in distributed networks where nodes may operate autonomously or with limited connectivity.
30. The communications system according to claim 25 , wherein the replacement node and the plurality of nodes are configured to perform the dynamic network reconfiguration procedure during operation of the industrial network.
This invention relates to industrial network communications systems, specifically addressing the challenge of dynamically reconfiguring network nodes during operation to maintain reliability and performance. The system includes a plurality of nodes interconnected in a network, where each node is capable of communicating with other nodes and performing network management functions. A replacement node is introduced to the network, which can dynamically replace one or more existing nodes without disrupting ongoing operations. The replacement node and the existing nodes are configured to execute a dynamic network reconfiguration procedure during normal network operation. This procedure involves the replacement node identifying its role and integrating into the network topology, while the existing nodes adjust their connections and routing paths accordingly. The system ensures seamless reconfiguration by coordinating the replacement node and the existing nodes to update their communication links and routing tables in real-time, minimizing downtime and maintaining data flow integrity. The invention is particularly useful in industrial environments where network reliability and continuous operation are critical.
31. The communications system according to claim 25 , wherein the plurality of nodes include one or more computers, scanners, printers, robots, sensors, or any combination thereof.
This invention relates to a communications system designed to facilitate data exchange between diverse types of nodes in a network. The system addresses the challenge of integrating heterogeneous devices, such as computers, scanners, printers, robots, and sensors, into a unified communication framework. These nodes may operate with different protocols, data formats, or processing capabilities, making seamless interaction difficult without specialized infrastructure. The system includes a network of interconnected nodes, where each node can transmit and receive data. The nodes are configured to communicate using standardized protocols or translation mechanisms to ensure compatibility. The system may also incorporate routing algorithms to optimize data flow between nodes, particularly in environments where devices have varying bandwidth or latency requirements. Additionally, the system may support dynamic node addition or removal, allowing for scalable and adaptable network configurations. The invention further enables nodes to perform specific functions, such as data processing, environmental monitoring, or automated task execution, depending on their capabilities. For example, sensors may collect and relay data to a central computer for analysis, while robots may receive commands from a control node to execute physical tasks. The system ensures that data integrity and synchronization are maintained across all nodes, even in distributed or decentralized network topologies. This approach enhances interoperability and efficiency in environments requiring diverse device integration.
32. The communications system according to claim 25 , wherein the plurality of nodes include Conformance Class A (CCA) devices of a IEEE 802.3 communications network.
This invention relates to a communications system for IEEE 802.3 networks, specifically addressing the integration of Conformance Class A (CCA) devices. CCA devices are low-power, single-pair Ethernet (SPE) endpoints designed for industrial and IoT applications, requiring efficient power delivery and data communication over a single twisted-pair cable. The system includes multiple nodes, where at least some are CCA devices, enabling them to operate within the IEEE 802.3 standard while maintaining compatibility with other network components. The system ensures proper power delivery, data transmission, and error handling for CCA devices, optimizing performance in industrial environments where reliability and low power consumption are critical. The invention may also include features for managing power allocation, data synchronization, and fault detection to support seamless operation of CCA devices alongside other network nodes. This solution enhances the scalability and efficiency of SPE networks by integrating CCA devices without compromising network performance or power management.
33. The communications system according to claim 25 , wherein the replacement node is initially associated with a known default node name prior to being replaced by the node name of the replaced node.
A communications system is designed to manage node replacements in a network, particularly in scenarios where nodes are dynamically reassigned or replaced. The system addresses the challenge of maintaining network integrity and communication continuity when a node is replaced, ensuring that other nodes in the network can still identify and interact with the replacement node seamlessly. The system includes a replacement node that is initially assigned a known default node name before it takes over the identity of the replaced node. This default name serves as a temporary identifier, allowing the replacement node to be recognized and integrated into the network before it adopts the node name of the replaced node. The replacement process ensures that the network can continue functioning without disruptions, as other nodes can communicate with the replacement node using its default name until the transition is complete. The system may also include mechanisms for detecting node failures or the need for replacement, initiating the replacement process, and updating network configurations to reflect the new node identity. By using a default node name, the system simplifies the replacement procedure and reduces the risk of communication errors during the transition. This approach is particularly useful in large-scale or dynamic networks where nodes may frequently change or be reassigned.
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November 3, 2020
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